Last summer, a stray tiger kitten
Living in a strand of woods
Behind my home, appeared on my patio
Enticed by offerings
Tins of tuna, fresh water, catnip toys
Wary to the unknown human touch
Kept at a distance, eluding my reach,
Resisted coaxing indoors
All summer long, he weighed the price of freedom
The green grass was lush and fresh
The dragonflies tantalizing to chase
Swatting the butterflies with his paw
Taking cover, under the juniper bush,
Considering his options
The woodlands, the only home he knew,
Running up and down the hill
My overtures, I hoped, would lead to trust
Would he let me love him
Take him into my care
To calm with persistence
Gentle strength
Let me hold him in his arms
Summer does not last
The cold damp sets in
The leaves fall
The trees bare
Offer no shelter
No hiding place
I know how harsh winter can be
Sudden chill come unawares
Can I tame
The wildness in his blood
I feel time against us
The foliage already changing
To scarlet, russet, and bronze
Will you come around?
To take a risk, a leap of faith,
Will fear give way to love ?